The Big Nowhere Summary of James Ellroy's Book

The Big Nowhere by James Ellroy: A Dive into 1950s Los Angeles

Set in 1950s Los Angeles, "The Big Nowhere" by James Ellroy delves into a world of corruption, violence, and betrayal. Published on September 1, 1988, this crime fiction novel is part of the L.A. Quartet series and takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark underbelly of Hollywood during the Red Scare. With a gripping plot and complex characters, this book explores the interconnected lives of three individuals who must confront their personal demons amidst the chaos of a city plagued by fear and death.

Characters

• Elizabeth Taylor: A Hollywood actress caught in the web of scandal and intrigue.
• James Dean: An up-and-coming actor struggling with fame and inner demons.
• Marlon Brando: A charismatic star with a dark side who becomes entangled in a web of deceit.
• John Fitzgerald Kennedy: A young politician with a promising future, but with secrets of his own.
• Deputy Danny Upshaw: A law enforcement officer who uncovers a series of brutal murders that shake the city to its core.
• Lieutenant Malcolm Considine: A seasoned detective tasked with solving the heinous crimes that haunt Los Angeles.
• Rock Hudson: A Hollywood heartthrob who finds himself embroiled in a scandal that threatens to destroy his career.
• Freddy Otash: A private investigator with a checkered past who becomes a key player in the unfolding drama.
• Joi Lansing: A sultry actress whose mysterious past leads to dangerous consequences.
• William H. Parker: The hard-nosed police chief determined to restore order in a city on the brink of chaos.
• Nicholas Ray: A troubled filmmaker grappling with personal demons and professional pressures.
• Turner "Buzz" Meeks: A former cop turned criminal whose actions set off a chain reaction of violence and betrayal.

Detailed Summary

In "The Big Nowhere," the city of Los Angeles has become a breeding ground for violence and corruption. Communist witch-hunts and brutal killings have left the community in a state of fear and paranoia. As the tension mounts, three men find their lives intertwined in a web of deceit and danger.

Deputy Danny Upshaw, a young law enforcement officer, stumbles upon a series of gruesome murders that bear a chilling resemblance to a Hollywood scandal. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a conspiracy that leads him to confront his own personal demons.

Lieutenant Malcolm Considine, a seasoned detective, is tasked with solving the brutal crimes that have gripped Los Angeles. As he follows the trail of evidence, he discovers dark secrets and betrayal among the city's elite.

Meanwhile, private investigator Freddy Otash finds himself caught in the middle of a dangerous game of cat and mouse as he uncovers a web of lies and deception that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.

As the three men navigate the treacherous landscape of 1950s Los Angeles, they must confront their own personal darkness and make choices that will define their fates.

Analysis

James Ellroy paints a vivid and gritty portrait of 1950s Los Angeles in "The Big Nowhere." The novel explores themes of corruption, power, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood during a time of political paranoia and social upheaval.

The characters in the book are complex and flawed, each grappling with their own inner demons amidst a city consumed by fear and violence. From the glamorous world of Hollywood to the seedy underbelly of crime, Ellroy weaves a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The author's writing is sharp and atmospheric, capturing the essence of a city on the brink of chaos. His meticulous attention to detail and intricate plotting create a sense of tension and suspense that builds throughout the novel.

Overall, "The Big Nowhere" is a gripping and immersive read that plunges readers into a world of darkness and deception. With its compelling characters and complex storyline, this book is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and mystery.

Final thoughts

If you enjoy gripping crime fiction novels that delve into the murky world of 1950s Los Angeles, then "The Big Nowhere" by James Ellroy is a must-read. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and atmospheric writing, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

To experience the full impact of this captivating novel, I highly recommend purchasing a copy of "The Big Nowhere" or listening to the audiobook for a truly immersive experience. Dive into the twisted world of Hollywood during the Red Scare and discover the dark secrets that lurk beneath the glitz and glamour of La La Land. Happy reading!

9780099366614 (ISBN10: 0099366614)